U.S. patent application number 14/263586 was filed with the patent office on 2014-08-21 for liquid crystal panel and electronic apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Japan Display West Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Japan Display West Inc.. Invention is credited to Takeo Koito, Harumi Okuno, Yoshihiro Sakurai, Hironao Tanaka.
Application Number | 20140232973 14/263586 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42265541 |
Filed Date | 2014-08-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140232973 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sakurai; Yoshihiro ; et
al. |
August 21, 2014 |
LIQUID CRYSTAL PANEL AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS
Abstract
A liquid crystal panel includes: first and second substrates
arranged to be opposite each other at a predetermined gap; a liquid
crystal layer filled between the first and second substrates;
alignment films; a counter electrode pattern formed on the first
substrate; and a pixel electrode pattern formed on the first
substrate so as to have a plurality of electrode branches, the
extension direction of which is bent at one bend point provided
near an upper pixel portion from the center of a pixel region, and
which are connected at the end portion of at least the upper pixel
portion or lower pixel portion, wherein the extension direction of
a slit formed near the upper pixel portion from the bend point from
among slits formed in the pixel electrode pattern crosses the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer at an angle of
7.degree. or larger.
Inventors: |
Sakurai; Yoshihiro;
(Kanagawa, JP) ; Tanaka; Hironao; (Kanagawa,
JP) ; Okuno; Harumi; (Kanagawa, JP) ; Koito;
Takeo; (Kanagawa, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Japan Display West Inc. |
Aichi-Ken |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
Japan Display West Inc.
Aichi-Ken
JP
|
Family ID: |
42265541 |
Appl. No.: |
14/263586 |
Filed: |
April 28, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12640906 |
Dec 17, 2009 |
|
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|
14263586 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
349/123 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02F 1/134363 20130101;
G02F 2001/133749 20130101; G02F 1/1337 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
349/123 |
International
Class: |
G02F 1/1337 20060101
G02F001/1337 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 19, 2008 |
JP |
2008-324781 |
Claims
1. A liquid crystal panel comprising: first and second substrates
arranged to be opposite each other at a predetermined gap; a liquid
crystal layer filled between the first and second substrates;
alignment films; a counter electrode pattern formed in a pixel
region at a first substrate side, the pixel region being surrounded
by signal lines and scanning lines; and a pixel electrode pattern
formed in the pixel region at the first substrate side so as to
have a plurality of electrode branches and one or more slits
between adjacent two branches, wherein the pixel electrode pattern
is bent at a bend point in the pixel region at an angle not less
than 7 degrees relative to an alignment direction of the liquid
crystal layer, an area ratio of a bent portion relative to an
entire area of the pixel region is not more than 50%, and the one
or more slits between adjacent two branches is/are closed at both
sides.
2. The liquid crystal panel according to claim 1, wherein the pixel
electrode pattern is bent at the bend point in the pixel region at
an angle not more than 15 degrees relative to the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer.
3. The liquid crystal panel according to claim 1, wherein the pixel
electrode pattern and the counter electrode pattern are formed on
the same layer surface.
4. The liquid crystal panel according to claim 1, wherein the pixel
electrode pattern and the counter electrode pattern are formed on
different layer surfaces.
5. The liquid crystal panel according to claim 1, wherein the pixel
electrode is further bent at a second bend point in the pixel
region at an angle not less than 7 degrees relative to the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer.
6. The liquid crystal panel according to claim 5, wherein the pixel
electrode is bent at the second bend point in the pixel region at
an angle not more than 15 degrees relative to the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer.
7. The liquid crystal panel according to claim 1, wherein both ends
of the pixel electrode pattern overlap scanning lines defining the
pixel region with the signal lines in which the pixel electrode
pattern is bent.
8. An electronic apparatus comprising the liquid crystal panel
according to claim 1.
9. An electronic apparatus comprising the liquid crystal panel
according to claim 5.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/640,906, filed Dec. 17, 2009, which
application claims priority to Japanese Priority Patent Application
JP 2008-324781 filed in the Japan Patent Office on Dec. 19, 2008,
the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present application relates to a transverse electric
field driving liquid crystal panel which performs rotation control
of the arrangement of liquid crystal molecules in parallel to a
substrate surface by a transverse electric field generated between
a pixel electrode and a counter electrode. The present application
also relates to an electronic apparatus having the liquid crystal
panel mounted therein.
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0003] At present, liquid crystal panels have various panel
structures including a vertical electric field display type in
which an electric field is generated in the vertical direction with
respect to the panel surface. For example, a transverse electric
field display type panel structure is suggested in which an
electric field is generated in the horizontal direction with
respect to the panel surface.
[0004] In the transverse electric field display type liquid crystal
panel, the rotation direction of liquid crystal molecules is
parallel to the substrate surface. That is, in the transverse
electric field display type liquid crystal panel, there is little
rotation of the liquid crystal molecules in the vertical direction
with respect to the substrate surface. For this reason, changes in
the optical characteristics (contrast, luminance, and color tone)
are comparatively small. That is, the transverse electric field
display type liquid crystal panel has a wider viewing angle than
the vertical electric field display type liquid crystal panel.
[0005] FIG. 1 shows an example of the sectional structure of a
pixel region constituting a transverse electric field display type
liquid crystal panel. FIG. 2 shows an example of the corresponding
planar structure.
[0006] A liquid crystal panel 1 has two glass substrates 3 and 5,
and a liquid crystal layer 7 filled so as to be sandwiched with the
glass substrates 3 and 5. A polarizing plate 9 is disposed on the
outer surface of each substrate, and an alignment film 11 is
disposed on the inner surface of each substrate. Note that the
alignment film 11 is used to arrange a group of liquid crystal
molecules of the liquid crystal layer 7 in a predetermined
direction. In general, a polyimide film is used.
[0007] On the glass substrate 5, a pixel electrode 13 and a counter
electrode 15 are formed of a transparent conductive film. Of these,
the pixel electrode 13 is structured such that both ends of five
comb-shaped electrode branches 13A are respectively connected by
connection portions 13B. Meanwhile, the counter electrode 15 is
formed below the electrode branches 13A (near the glass substrate
5) so as to cover the entire pixel region. This electrode structure
causes a parabolic electric field between the electrode branches
13A and the counter electrode 15. In FIG. 1, this electric field is
indicated by a broken-line arrow.
[0008] The pixel region corresponds to a region surrounded by
signal lines 21 and scanning lines 23 shown in FIG. 2. In each
pixel region, a thin film transistor for controlling the
application of a signal potential to the pixel electrode 13 is
disposed. The gate electrode of the thin film transistor is
connected to a scanning line 23, so the thin film transistor is
turned on/off by the potential of the scanning line 23.
[0009] One main electrode of the thin film transistor is connected
to a signal line 21 through an interconnect pattern (not shown),
and the other main electrode of the thin film transistor is
connected to a contact 25 of the pixel electrode. Thus, when the
thin film transistor is turned on, the signal line 21 and the pixel
electrode 13 are connected to each other, and the signal potential
is applied to the pixel electrode 13.
[0010] As shown in FIG. 2, in this specification, a gap between the
electrode branches 13A is called a slit 31. In FIG. 2, the
extension direction of the slit 31 is identical to the extension
direction of the signal line 21.
[0011] For reference, FIGS. 3A and 3B show the sectional structure
around the contact 25.
[0012] JP-A-10-123482 and JP-A-11-202356 are examples of the
related art.
SUMMARY
[0013] In the transverse electric field display type liquid crystal
panel, it is known that, as shown in FIG. 4, the alignment of the
liquid crystal molecules is likely to be disturbed at both ends of
the slit 31 (around the connection portion of the electrode
branches 13A and the connection portion 13B). This phenomenon is
called disclination. In FIG. 4, regions 41 where the arrangement of
the liquid crystal molecules is disturbed due to occurrence of
disclination are shaded. In FIG. 4, the alignment of the liquid
crystal molecules is disturbed at ten regions 41 in total.
[0014] If external pressure (finger press or the like) is applied
to the disclination, the disturbance of the arrangement of the
liquid crystal molecules is expanded along the extension direction
of the electrode branches 13A. Further, the disclination expanded
from the upper portion of the pixel and the disclination expanded
from the lower portion of the pixel are linked at the center of the
pixel, and the shape is maintained. Note that the liquid crystal
molecules in the disclination rotate in a direction opposite to the
direction determined according to the electric field direction.
This phenomenon is called a reverse twist phenomenon.
[0015] FIG. 5 shows an example of the occurrence of a reverse twist
phenomenon. In FIG. 5, regions 43 where the arrangement of the
liquid crystal molecules is disturbed are shaded. These regions
extend along the extension direction of the electrode branches
13A.
[0016] In the case of the liquid crystal panel being used at
present, if the reverse twist phenomenon occurs, the original state
is not restored after it has been left uncontrolled. This is
because the disclination expanded from the upper portion of the
pixel is linked with the disclination expanded from the lower
portion of the pixel at the central portion of the pixel to form a
stabilized state, and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal
molecules in the regions 43 is not restored to the original state.
As a result, the regions 43 where the reverse twist phenomenon
occurs may be continuously viewed as residual images (that is,
display irregularity). Hereinafter, a residual image is called a
reverse twist line.
[0017] An embodiment of the application provides a liquid crystal
panel. The liquid crystal panel includes first and second
substrates arranged to be opposite each other at a predetermined
gap, a liquid crystal layer filled between the first and second
substrates, alignment films, a counter electrode pattern formed on
the first substrate, and a pixel electrode pattern formed on the
first substrate so as to have a plurality of electrode branches,
the extension direction of which is bent at one bend point provided
near an upper pixel portion from the center of a pixel region, and
which are connected at the end portion of at least the upper pixel
portion.
[0018] The extension direction of a slit formed near the upper
pixel portion from the bend point from among slits formed in the
pixel electrode pattern may cross the alignment direction of the
liquid crystal layer at an angle of 7.degree. or larger. With this
configuration, alignment disturbance which occurs in the vicinity
of the upper pixel portion can be suppressed.
[0019] The extension direction of a slit formed on the side
opposite to the upper pixel portion from the bend point may cross
the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer at an angle of
7.degree. or larger. With this configuration, even though a reverse
twist line grows beyond a bent region and reaches the center of the
screen, alignment disturbance can rapidly disappear.
[0020] The cross angle between the extension direction of the slit
and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer may be
equal to or larger than 7.degree. and equal to or smaller than
15.degree.. This is because as the cross angle is larger, the
alignment stability during voltage application increases, and as
the cross angle is larger, transmittance is lowered.
[0021] The pixel electrode pattern and the counter electrode
pattern may be formed on the same layer surface, or may be formed
on different layer surfaces. That is, if the liquid crystal panel
is a transverse electric field display type liquid crystal panel,
and the pixel electrode has a slit, the sectional structure of the
pixel region is not limited.
[0022] A plurality of bend points may be provided in the pixel
electrode pattern. For example, when two bend points are provided,
a second bend point may be provided around a connection portion in
a lower pixel portion. This is because disclination occurs in an
end portion of the lower pixel portion.
[0023] When three bend points are provided, a third bend point may
be provided around the center of the pixel region. If the third
bend point is provided, the pixel region can be divided into two
regions, and a viewing angle can be widened.
[0024] When five bend points are provided, fourth and fifth bend
points may be provided around both sides of the third bend point.
In this case, if the cross angle between the extension direction of
a slit formed between the fourth and fifth bend points on both
sides of the third bend point and the alignment direction of the
liquid crystal layer is larger than 7.degree., the alignment
stability around the center of the pixel region during voltage
application pixel region can be increased.
[0025] The inventors have focused on the slit end portion where
disclination occurs. From this viewpoint, the pixel electrode
pattern or the alignment film is formed such that cross angle
between the slit extension direction around the relevant region and
the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer is equal to or
larger than 7.degree..
[0026] With this pixel structure, the alignment stability in the
slit end portion can be intensively increased.
[0027] Additional features and advantages are described herein, and
will be apparent from the following Detailed Description and the
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0028] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the sectional
structure of a transverse electric field display type liquid
crystal panel.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the planar
structure of a transverse electric field display type liquid
crystal panel.
[0030] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing an example of the
sectional structure around a contact.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating disclination.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a reverse twist
phenomenon.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an appearance example of a
liquid crystal panel module.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the system
configuration of a liquid crystal panel module.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the cross angle between the
extension direction of each slit and the alignment direction of a
liquid crystal layer.
[0036] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between
the magnitude of a cross angle and display irregularity
disappearance time.
[0037] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between
the magnitude of a cross angle and the level of display
irregularity.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between
the magnitude of a cross angle and relative transmittance.
[0039] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the cross angle between
the extension direction of a slit and the alignment direction of a
liquid crystal layer when a bent region is provided in a portion of
a pixel region.
[0040] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the cross angle between
the extension direction of a slit and the alignment direction of a
liquid crystal layer when a bent region is provided in a portion of
a pixel region.
[0041] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between
the area ratio of a bent region and relative transmittance
according to the magnitude of a cross angle.
[0042] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a pixel structure example when
the area ratio of a bent region is 100%.
[0043] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a first pixel structure example
(planar structure).
[0044] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a second pixel structure
example (planar structure).
[0045] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a third pixel structure example
(planar structure).
[0046] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a fourth pixel structure
example (planar structure).
[0047] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a fifth pixel structure example
(planar structure).
[0048] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a sixth pixel structure example
(planar structure).
[0049] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a seventh pixel structure
example (planar structure).
[0050] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an eighth pixel structure
example (planar structure).
[0051] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a ninth pixel structure example
(sectional structure).
[0052] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the system configuration
of an electronic apparatus.
[0053] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an appearance example of an
electronic apparatus.
[0054] FIGS. 27A and 27B are diagrams showing an appearance example
of an electronic apparatus.
[0055] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an appearance example of an
electronic apparatus.
[0056] FIGS. 29A and 29B are diagrams showing an appearance example
of an electronic apparatus.
[0057] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an appearance example of an
electronic apparatus.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0058] The present application will be described below with
reference to the figures accordingly to an embodiment.
[0059] (A) Appearance Example of Liquid Crystal Panel Module and
Panel Structure
[0060] (B) Characteristics Found between Extension Direction of
Slit and Alignment Direction of Liquid Crystal Layer
[0061] (C) Pixel Structure Example 1 (Single Domain Structure
Example with One Bend Point)
[0062] (D) Pixel Structure Example 2 (Single Domain Structure
Example with One Bend Point)
[0063] (E) Pixel Structure Example 3 (Single Domain Structure
Example with Two Bend Points)
[0064] (F) Pixel Structure Example 4 (Dual Domain Structure Example
with Three Bend Points)
[0065] (G) Pixel Structure Example 5 (Dual Domain Structure Example
with Three Bend Points)
[0066] (H) Pixel Structure Example 6 (Dual Domain Structure Example
with Five Bend Points)
[0067] (I) Pixel Structure Example 7(Dual Domain Structure Example
with Five Bend Points)
[0068] (J) Pixel Structure Example 8 (Modification)
[0069] (K) Pixel Structure Example 9 (Modification)
[0070] (L) Pixel Structure Example 10 (Modification)
[0071] (M) Other Examples
[0072] Elements which are not provided with particular drawings or
descriptions herein are realized by existing techniques in the
relevant technical field. Embodiments described below are
exemplary, and not limiting to the present application.
(A) Appearance Example of Liquid Crystal Panel Module and Panel
Structure
[0073] FIG. 6 shows an appearance example of a liquid crystal panel
module 51. The liquid crystal panel module 51 is structured such
that a counter substrate 55 is bonded to a support substrate 53.
The support substrate 53 is made of glass, plastic, or other
substrates. The counter substrate 55 is also made of glass,
plastic, or other transparent substrates. The counter substrate 55
is a member which seals the surface of the support substrate 53
with a sealant interposed therebetween.
[0074] Note that only one substrate on the light emission side may
be a transparent substrate, and the other substrate may be a
nontransparent substrate.
[0075] The liquid crystal panel 51 is provided with an FPC
(Flexible Printed Circuit) 57 for inputting an external signal or
driving power, if necessary.
[0076] FIG. 7 shows an example of the system configuration of the
liquid crystal panel module 51. The liquid crystal panel module 51
is configured such that a pixel array section 63, a signal line
driver 65, a gate line driver 67, and a timing controller 69 are
disposed on a lower glass substrate 61 (corresponding to the glass
substrate 5 of FIG. 1). In this embodiment, the driving circuit of
the pixel array section 63 is formed as a single or a plurality of
semiconductor integrated circuits, and is mounted on the glass
substrate.
[0077] The pixel array section 63 has a matrix structure in which
white units each constituting one pixel for display are arranged in
M rows.times.N columns. In this specification, the row refers to a
pixel row of 3.times.N subpixels 71 arranged in the X direction of
the drawing. The column refers to a pixel column of M subpixels 71
arranged in the Y direction of the drawing. Of course, the values M
and N are determined depending on the display resolution in the
vertical direction and the display resolution in the horizontal
direction.
[0078] The signal line driver 65 is used to apply a signal
potential Vsig corresponding to a pixel gradation value to signal
lines DL. In this embodiment, the signal lines DL are arranged so
as to extend in the Y direction of the drawing.
[0079] The gate line driver 67 is used to apply control pulses for
providing the write timing of the signal potential Vsig to scanning
lines WL. In this embodiment, the scanning lines WL are arranged so
as to extend in the X direction of the drawing.
[0080] A thin film transistor (not shown) is formed in each
subpixel 71. The thin film transistor has a gate electrode
connected to a corresponding one of the scanning lines WL, one main
electrode connected to a corresponding one of the signal lines DL,
and the other main electrode connected to the pixel electrode 13
(contact 25).
[0081] The timing controller 69 is a circuit device which supplies
driving pulses to the signal line driver 65 and the gate line
driver 67.
(B) Characteristics Found Between Extension Direction of Slit and
Alignment Direction of Liquid Crystal Layer
[0082] As described above, in the existing pixel structure, if
disturbance (reverse twist phenomenon) of the alignment of liquid
crystal molecules occurs due to finger press or the like, the
disturbance is continuously viewed as display irregularity.
[0083] Accordingly, the inventors have experimented on whether the
disturbance of the alignment of liquid crystal molecules can be
reduced or not by itself by changing the cross angle between the
extension direction of each slit 31 formed by the electrode
branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13 and the alignment direction
of the liquid crystal layer 7. The alignment direction of the
liquid crystal layer 7 (also referred to as "alignment direction of
liquid crystal") is defined by the orientation of dielectric
anisotropy of liquid crystal, and refers to a direction with a
large dielectric constant.
[0084] Hereinafter, the characteristics which become clear
experimentally will be described.
[0085] First, the relationship between the slit 31 and the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 will be described
with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the planar
structure of the subpixel 71. In FIG. 8, the relationship between
the extension direction of the slit 31 and the alignment direction
of the liquid crystal layer 7 is focused on. For this reason, a
thin film transistor and the like are not shown.
[0086] The planar structure of FIG. 8 is identical to the planar
structure described with reference to FIG. 2, and the corresponding
elements are represented by the same reference numerals. That is,
the subpixel 71 is formed in a rectangular region surrounded by the
signal lines 21 extending in the Y direction and the scanning lines
23 extending in the X direction. The pixel electrode 13 has five
electrode branches 13A and connection portions 13B respectively
connecting both ends of the electrode branches 13A. In FIG. 8, the
slits 31 formed between the electrode branches 13A or the slit 31
formed between the electrode branches 13A and the signal line 21 on
the right side in the drawing extend in the Y direction.
[0087] That is, the extension direction of each slit 31 is parallel
to the signal line 21 and perpendicular to the scanning line
23.
[0088] In FIG. 8, the alignment direction of the liquid crystal
layer 7 is indicated by an arrow. In FIG. 8, the oblique upper
right direction with respect to the paper is the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer 7. In FIG. 8, the cross angle
between the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 and
the extension direction of each slit 31 is indicated by
.alpha..
[0089] The inventors have focused on the cross angle .alpha., and
have measured the time until display irregularity disappears with
respect to various cross angles .alpha..
[0090] FIG. 9 shows the measurement result. In FIG. 9, the
horizontal axis represents the cross angle .alpha. between the
extension direction of each slit 31 and the alignment direction of
the liquid crystal layer 7, and the vertical axis represents the
time until display irregularity disappears.
[0091] From the experiment result of FIG. 9, it has been confirmed
that, when the cross angle .alpha. is smaller than 7.degree.,
display irregularity due to the reverse twist phenomenon does not
disappear by itself.
[0092] Meanwhile, when the cross angle .alpha. is equal to or
larger than 7.degree., it has been confirmed that the reverse twist
line can disappear by itself. When the cross angle .alpha. is
7.degree., the time until display irregularity disappears is 3.5
[seconds]. Further, from the experiment result, it has been
confirmed that, as the cross angle .alpha. becomes larger, the time
until display irregularity disappears is shortened. For example,
when the cross angle .alpha. is 10.degree., it has been confirmed
that display irregularity disappears in 3 [seconds]. When the cross
angle .alpha. is 15.degree., it has been confirmed that display
irregularity disappears in 2.5 [seconds]. When the cross angle
.alpha. is 20.degree., it has been confirmed that display
irregularity disappears in 1.5 [seconds].
[0093] As a result, the inventors have found that, if the cross
angle .alpha. between the extension direction of each slit 31 and
the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is set to be
equal to or larger than 7.degree., in the transverse electric field
display type liquid crystal panel, the alignment stability of
liquid crystal molecules can be improved. That is, it has been
found that, even though the reverse twist phenomenon occurs due to
finger press or the like, the disturbance of the alignment can
disappear by itself.
[0094] FIG. 10 shows the observation result regarding the
relationship between the cross angle .alpha. and the level of
display irregularity. In FIG. 10, the horizontal axis denotes the
cross angle .alpha. between the extension direction of the slit 31
and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7, and the
vertical axis denotes the visible level of display
irregularity.
[0095] As shown in FIG. 10, if the cross angle .alpha. is equal to
or larger than 10.degree., it has been confirmed that no display
irregularity is observed even when the display screen is viewed at
any angle. When the cross angle .alpha. is 5.degree., it has been
confirmed that, when the display screen is viewed from an oblique
direction, slight display irregularity is observed. When the cross
angle .alpha. is equal to or larger than 5.degree. and smaller than
10.degree., as shown in FIG. 10, it has been confirmed that
visibility is gradually changed.
[0096] However, it has been confirmed that, if the cross angle
.alpha. is extremely large, the transmittance is lowered. FIG. 11
shows the confirmed transmission characteristics. In FIG. 11, the
horizontal axis denotes the cross angle .alpha. between the
extension direction of the slit 31 and the alignment direction of
the liquid crystal layer 7, and the vertical axis denotes relative
transmittance. In FIG. 11, it is assumed that, when the cross angle
.alpha. is 5.degree., the relative transmittance is 100%.
[0097] In FIG. 11, when the cross angle .alpha. is 5.degree., the
maximum transmittance is obtained, and when the cross angle .alpha.
is 45.degree., the minimum transmittance is obtained. Note that,
when the cross .alpha. is 45.degree., the relative transmittance is
about 64%.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 11, it has been seen that the cross angle
.alpha. and the relative transmittance have a roughly linear
relationship. From the viewpoint of transmittance, it can be seen
that, as the cross angle .alpha. is smaller, better display
luminance is obtained.
[0099] The characteristics shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 are obtained on
the assumption that each slit 31 of the pixel electrode 12 crosses
the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 at a
predetermined cross angle .alpha. over the entire pixel region, as
shown in FIG. 8. In this case, if the cross angle .alpha. is set
while placing priority on the reduction in the disappearance time
of display irregularity, the relative transmittance decreases. If
the cross angle .alpha. is set while placing priority on the
relative transmittance, the disappearance time of display
irregularity increases.
[0100] Accordingly, the inventors have suggested that the cross
angle .alpha. is set to be equal to or larger than 7.degree. and
equal to or smaller than 15.degree.. This is because it is
considered that, if the cross angle .alpha. falls within the range,
the disappearance time of display irregularity and the relative
transmittance can be maintained at a satisfactory level.
[0101] Further, the inventors have experimentally confirmed the
effects when the condition on the cross angle .alpha. is partially
applied to the pixel region. Hereinafter, the experiment result
will be described.
[0102] FIGS. 12 and 13 show planar structure examples of a subpixel
71 used in the experiment.
[0103] The planar structure shown in FIG. 12 or 13 is identical to
the planar structure described with reference to FIG. 8, and the
corresponding elements are represented by the same reference
numerals. That is, the subpixel 71 is formed in a rectangular
region surrounded by the signal lines 21 extending in the Y
direction and the scanning lines 23 extending in the X direction.
In FIG. 12 or 13, the pixel electrode 13 has five electrode
branches 13A and connection portions 13B connecting both ends of
the electrode branches 13A.
[0104] A difference from FIG. 8 is that that one bend point is
provided around the contact 25 for each electrode branch 13A, that
is, in the upper pixel portion, and the electrode pattern of the
rectangular electrode branches 13A is bent at the bend point.
[0105] In FIG. 12 or 13, an electrode pattern is taken into
consideration in which the electrode branches 13A near the center
of the pixel region from the bend point are parallel to the signal
line 21, and the electrode branches 13A near the contact 25 from
the bend point are inclined in the right direction of the drawing
with respect to the signal line 21.
[0106] In FIGS. 12 and 13, the area of a bent portion (the area
near the contact 25 from the bend point) to the area of the entire
pixel region is indicated by A %. Thus, the area excluding the bent
portion is (100-A) %.
[0107] In FIGS. 12 and 13, the cross angle between the extension
direction of each slit 31 formed by the electrode branches 13A near
the contact 25 from the bend point and the alignment direction of
the liquid crystal layer 7 is indicated by .alpha.1. Further, the
cross angle between the extension direction of each slit 31 formed
in parallel to the signal 21 and the alignment direction of the
liquid crystal layer 7 is indicated by .alpha.2. FIG. 12 shows an
example where the alignment direction is the upper right direction
in the drawing and the relationship .alpha.2>.alpha.1 is
established between the slit extension direction and the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer 7. FIG. 13 shows an example
where the alignment direction is the upper left direction in the
drawing and the relationship .alpha.1>.alpha.2 is established
between the slit extension direction and the alignment direction of
the liquid crystal layer 7.
[0108] FIG. 14 shows the experiment result. FIG. 14 shows the
measurement result of a change in the relative transmittance due to
a difference in the area ratio A (%) of the bent portion for each
cross angle. In FIG. 14, the horizontal axis represents the area
ratio of a bent portion to the entire pixel region, and the
vertical axis represents the relationship between the cross angle
and the relative transmittance. The lines in the drawing
respectively indicate the characteristics measured for the cross
angles .alpha.1 10.degree., 15.degree., 20.degree., 25.degree.,
30.degree., 35.degree., 40.degree., and 45.degree..
[0109] As shown in FIG. 14, when the area ratio A of the bent
portion is 0%, the relative transmittance is 100%, regardless of
the magnitude of the cross angle .alpha.1. Note that the case where
the area ratio A of the bent portion is 0% refers to the pixel
structure of FIG. 8.
[0110] It has been confirmed that, if the area ratio A of the bent
portion is large, the relative transmittance is lowered, regardless
of the magnitude of the cross angle .alpha.1.
[0111] FIG. 15 shows an example of a pixel structure example in
which the area ratio A of the bent portion is 100%. The relative
transmittance characteristics obtained for the pixel structure
shown in FIG. 15 correspond to FIG. 11 described above.
[0112] Similarly to the characteristics of FIG. 11, as the cross
angle .alpha.1 is smaller, the relative transmittance is higher,
and as the cross angle .alpha.1 is larger, the relative
transmittance is lowered.
[0113] As will be seen from FIG. 14, if the portion where the
electrode branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13 are bent is
limited to a portion of the pixel region, the relative
transmittance of the pixel region can be increased, as compared
with the pixel structure (FIG. 15) which the bent portion is the
entire pixel region.
[0114] In this case, the upper limit of the area ratio A differs
depending on the pattern structure of the pixel electrode 13 to be
used or the cross angle .alpha.1 with respect to the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer 7, but a predetermined degree
of transmission should be obtained. For example, the target
relative transmittance of 80% is taken into consideration. In FIG.
14, if the area ratio A of the bent portion is set to be 50% or
smaller of the area of the pixel region, the condition on the
transmittance can be satisfied, regardless of the magnitude of the
cross angle .alpha.1.
[0115] The lower limit of the area ratio A is set taking into
consideration the resolution limit in the manufacturing process. In
general, as the area ratio A is smaller, the relative transmittance
is higher, regardless of the magnitude of the cross angle .alpha.1.
Therefore, it has been considered that, for practical use, it is
preferable to set the area ratio A to be small in a state where the
cross angle .alpha.1 is set large.
(C) Pixel Structure Example 1
[0116] The pixel structure shown in FIG. 16 is identical to the
pixel structure described with reference to FIG. 12 or 13 and
supposes an FFS (Fringe Field Switching) type liquid crystal
panel.
[0117] Thus, the sectional structure of the pixel region is as
shown in FIG. 1. That is, the counter electrode 15 is disposed
below the pixel electrode 13 so as to cover the entire pixel
region.
[0118] Like FIG. 12 or 13, the pixel structure shown in FIG. 16 is
a pixel structure in which one bend point is provided. The bend
point is provided around the contact 25. In FIG. 16, the area of
the bent region is enlarged for ease of understanding of the
extension direction of the slit 31 extending from the bend point
toward the contact 25.
[0119] In FIG. 16, the extension direction of a slit 31 formed near
the center of the pixel region from the bend point is parallel to
the signal line 21. The extension direction of the slit 31
extending from the bend point toward the contact 25 crosses the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 at the cross
angle .alpha.1 of 7.degree. or larger. That is, FIG. 16 shows a
pixel structure in which the slit 31 and the alignment direction
cross each other at an angle of 7.degree. or larger only in a
region around the contact 25, and the slit 31 and the alignment
direction cross each other at an angle smaller than 7.degree. in
the remaining pixel region.
[0120] Most of reverse twist lines occur since disclination at the
end portion of the slit 31 around the contact 25 grows along the
slit 31 during the application of external pressure.
[0121] In contrast, in the pixel structure of FIG. 16, the bent
region is provided around the contact 25, so the alignment
stability in the region can be increased. As a result, disclination
growth can be suppressed.
[0122] Of course, if disclination growth is suppressed, the
occurrence of reverse twist lines is suppressed. Further, even
though a reverse twist line occurs, the reverse twist line can be
rapidly eliminated. In the pixel region excluding the bent region,
the cross angle .alpha.2 between the slit extension direction and
the alignment direction is smaller than 7.degree., so the relative
transmittance approaches 100%.
[0123] Therefore, a liquid crystal panel with high screen luminance
and a small number of reverse twist lines (residual images) can be
realized, as compared with the related art.
[0124] If the area ratio A of the bent region is set to be
significantly small, as shown in FIG. 14, the transmittance over
the entire pixel region can be further increased, while the effect
on the alignment stability can be increased. From the viewpoint of
the balance between the alignment regulation force and the
transmittance, it is preferable that the cross angle .alpha.1 is in
the range of about 7.degree. to 15.degree..
(D) Pixel Structure Example 2
[0125] FIG. 17 shows a second pixel structure example. This pixel
structure also supposes an FFS (Fringe Field Switching) type liquid
crystal panel.
[0126] In FIG. 17, the cross angle .alpha.2 between the extension
direction of each slit 31 formed in the pixel region excluding the
bent region and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer
7 is equal to or larger than 7.degree.. The cross angle .alpha.1
between the extension direction of each slit 31 formed in the bent
region and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is
equal to or larger than the above-described cross angle
.alpha.2.
[0127] In this pixel structure, the cross angle .alpha.1 between
the extension direction of each slit 31 corresponding to the bent
region and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7
can be set to be equal to or larger than 7.degree., so as in the
pixel structure example 1, the alignment stability can be increased
and disclination growth can be suppressed.
[0128] In this pixel structure, with regard to the pixel region
(the central portion of the pixel region) excluding the bent
region, the extension direction of each slit 31 and the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 cross each other at the
angle .alpha.2 of 7.degree. or larger. For this reason, even though
a reverse twist line temporarily grows to the region, the reverse
twist line can disappear by itself in a short time.
[0129] As described above, with this pixel structure, a liquid
crystal panel can be realized in which the alignment stability
during voltage application can be improved over the entire pixel
region, and even though a reverse twist line temporarily occurs,
the reverse twist line can disappear by itself. That is, a liquid
crystal panel which achieves higher display quality than the pixel
structure example 1 can be realized.
(E) Pixel Structure Example 3
[0130] FIG. 18 shows a third pixel structure example. This pixel
structure also supposes an FFS liquid crystal panel.
[0131] This pixel structure is also identical to the
above-described two pixel structures, and corresponds to a pixel
structure example with a single domain structure. This pixel
structure example has a feature that two bend points (bent regions)
are provided. Specifically, a second bend point is provided around
the connection portion 13B on the side opposite to the contact
25.
[0132] This is to increase the alignment regulation force around
both ends of the electrode branches 13A so as to shorten the time
until a reverse twist line disappears. Of course, in this pixel
structure, disclination which occurs at the end portions of the
electrode branches 13A on the side opposite to the contact 25 can
also be suppressed.
[0133] In the pixel structure example of FIG. 18, the positions of
the bend points and the bend directions are set to be
mirror-symmetric with respect to the center of the pixel region,
but actually, the application is not limited thereto. For example,
point-symmetry or asymmetry may be used.
[0134] Of course, if the area ratio of the bent region to the
entire pixel region increases, the transmittance is lowered, so it
is preferable that the bent region is as small as possible. With
regard to the bent region, from the viewpoint of the balance
between the alignment regulation force and the transmittance, it is
preferable that the cross angle .alpha.1 is in the range of about
7.degree. to 15.degree..
(F) Pixel Structure Example 4
[0135] FIG. 19 shows a fourth pixel structure example. This pixel
structure also supposes an FFS liquid crystal panel.
[0136] In the pixel structure example of FIG. 19, a third bend
point is provided around the center of the pixel region. The pixel
structure of FIG. 19 has a vertical mirror structure from a virtual
line extending from the third bend point in the X-axis direction,
but actually, the application is not limited thereto.
[0137] In the pixel structure example of FIG. 19, in the two bent
regions at both ends of the pixel region, the alignment direction
of the liquid crystal layer 7 and the extension direction of each
slit 31 cross each other at an angle of 7.degree. or larger.
[0138] In FIG. 19, a structure in which the pixel electrode 13 has
a vertical mirror structure along a virtual line extending in the
X-axis direction has been focused on, so the alignment direction of
the liquid crystal layer 7 is set to be parallel to the Y-axis
direction.
[0139] In the bent region at the center of the pixel region
including the bend point 3, it is assumed that the cross angle
.alpha.2 between the alignment direction of the liquid crystal
layer 7 and the extension direction of the slit 31 is arbitrary.
This is because the bend point 3 formed at the center of the pixel
region is merely formed to improve the viewing angle dependency
first of all.
[0140] Of course, if the cross angle .alpha.2 between each slit 31
formed between the bend point 3 and the bend point 1 and the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is equal to or
larger than 7.degree., the alignment stability increases.
Therefore, even though a reverse twist line temporarily occurs, the
reverse twist line can be reliably eliminated. For the same reason,
it is preferable that the cross angle .alpha.2 between each slit 31
formed between the bend point 3 and the bend point 2 and the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is equal to or
larger than 7.degree..
[0141] In this pixel structure, the rotation direction of the
liquid crystal molecules is inverted between the upper half portion
and the lower half portion of the pixel region. That is, in the
upper half portion of the pixel region in the drawing, the liquid
crystal molecules rotate in the counterclockwise direction by the
application of an electric field. Meanwhile, in the lower half
portion of the pixel region of the drawing, the liquid crystal
molecules rotate in the clockwise direction.
[0142] As described above, the rotation direction of the liquid
crystal molecules is inverted, which compensates for the viewing
angle dependency in the oblique direction, so the viewing angle
dependency can be improved.
(G) Pixel Structure Example 5
[0143] FIG. 20 shows a fifth pixel structure example. This pixel
structure corresponds to a modification of the dual domain
structure shown in FIG. 19.
[0144] A difference is that at the third bend point, a connection
branch 13C connecting the electrode branches 13A to each other is
further provided.
[0145] In the pixel structure of FIG. 19, the rotation direction of
the liquid crystal molecules is inverted at the boundary between
two upper and lower domains, and alignment disturbance is likely to
occur. For this reason, when a reverse twist line occurs, there is
a significant adverse effect on the disappearance of the reverse
twist line.
[0146] Meanwhile, in the pixel structure of FIG. 20, the two
domains are completely separated from each other by the connection
branch 13C. Thus, alignment disturbance can be eliminated. As a
result, with the pixel structure shown in FIG. 20, the time until a
reverse twist line disappears can be further shortened than the
pixel structure shown in FIG. 19, and display quality can be
increased by as much.
(H) Pixel Structure Example 6
[0147] FIG. 21 shows a sixth pixel structure example. The pixel
structure shown in FIG. 21 corresponds to a modification of the
pixel structure shown in FIG. 19.
[0148] In the above-described sixth pixel structure example (FIG.
21), a method is used in which two domains are completely separated
from each other to suppress alignment disturbance at the boundary
between the domains.
[0149] Meanwhile, in this pixel structure example, a structure is
used in which fourth and fifth bend points are formed around both
sides of the third bend point. In this case, the pixel pattern is
formed such that the cross angle .alpha.3 between the extension
direction of each slit 31 formed between the third bend point and
the fourth bend point and the alignment direction of the liquid
crystal layer 7 is equal to or larger than 7.degree.. Similarly,
the pixel pattern is formed such that the cross angle .alpha.3
between the extension direction of each slit 31 formed between the
third bend point and the fifth bend point and the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is equal to or larger than
7.degree..
[0150] That is, in the sixth pixel structure example, a method is
used in which the alignment stability increases in the region
around the third bend point to suppress alignment disturbance at
the boundary between the domains.
[0151] Of course, the pixel structure shown in FIG. 21 is identical
to the fourth pixel structure shown in FIG. 19 in that the pixel
structure has a vertical mirror structure from a virtual line
extending from the third bend point in the X-axis direction.
[0152] That is, the extension direction of each slit in the bent
regions formed around both end portions of the pixel region crosses
the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 at the cross
angle of 7.degree. or larger. With this structure, the alignment
stability at both end portions of the pixel region can be
increased, and disclination can be effectively suppressed.
[0153] In the region between the first bend point and the fourth
bend point, the cross angle .alpha.2 between the extension
direction of the corresponding slit 31 and the alignment direction
of the liquid crystal layer 7 is selected so as to ensure higher
transmittance. The same is applied to the region between the second
bend point and the fifth bend point.
[0154] With the above-described pixel structure, the time until
disclination occurring at the upper and lower end portions of the
pixel region and disclination occurring at the boundary between the
domains disappear can be shortened. Further, even though reverse
twist lines occurs in these regions due to external pressure, the
reverse twist lines can be rapidly eliminated.
(I) Pixel Structure Example 7
[0155] FIG. 22 shows a seventh pixel structure example. The pixel
structure shown in FIG. 22 corresponds to a modification of the
pixel structure shown in FIG. 20.
[0156] In the sixth pixel structure example, the method is used in
which the two domains are completely separated from each other to
suppress alignment disturbance. However, in this pixel structure,
disclination inevitably occurs in the region around the connection
branch 13C.
[0157] Accordingly, in this pixel structure example, configuration
is provided such that fourth and fifth bend points are newly formed
around both sides of the third bend point to increase the alignment
stability in the region around the connection branch 13C. In this
case, the pixel pattern is formed such that the cross angle
.alpha.3 between the extension direction of each slit 31 formed
between the third bend point and fourth bend point and the
alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is equal to or
larger than 7.degree.. Similarly, the pixel pattern is formed such
that the cross angle .alpha.3 between the extension direction of
each slit 31 formed between the third bend point and the fifth bend
point and the alignment direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 is
equal to or larger than 7.degree..
[0158] That is, in the seventh pixel structure example, a method is
used in which the alignment stability in the region around the
third bend point increases to suppress alignment disturbance.
[0159] Of course, the pixel structure shown in FIG. 22 is identical
to the fifth pixel structure shown in FIG. 20 in that the pixel
structure has a vertical mirror structure from a virtual line
extending from the third bend point in the X-axis direction.
[0160] That is, the extension direction of each slit in the bent
regions around both ends of the pixel region crosses the alignment
direction of the liquid crystal layer 7 at the cross angle of
7.degree. or larger. In these regions, the alignment stability
increases.
[0161] The extension direction of each slit between the first bend
point and the fourth bend point crosses the alignment direction of
the liquid crystal layer 7 at the cross angle .alpha.2 which is
selected so as to ensure high transmittance. Of course, the
extension direction of each slit between the second bend point and
the fifth bend point also crosses the alignment direction of the
liquid crystal layer 7 at the cross angle .alpha.2 which is
selected so as to ensure high transmittance.
[0162] The use of the above-described configuration makes it
possible to shorten the time until disclination occurring at both
end portions of the pixel region and disclination occurring at the
boundary between the domains disappear. The time until the reverse
twist line occurring at the central portion of the pixel region
disappears can be shortened.
(J) Pixel Structure Example 8
[0163] In the above-described seven pixel structure examples, a
liquid crystal panel has been described which has a pixel structure
in which the counter electrode 15 is disposed below the comb-shaped
pixel electrode 13 so as to cover the entire pixel region.
[0164] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 23, a liquid crystal panel
having a comb-shaped counter electrode 15 may be adopted. In FIG.
23, the electrode branches 15A of the counter electrode 15 are
disposed so as to fill the spaces (slits 31) between the electrode
branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13. That is, the electrode
branches 15A of the counter electrode 15 are disposed so as not to
overlap the electrode branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13 in the
pixel region.
(K) Pixel Structure Example 9
[0165] In the above-described pixel structure examples, the
description has been made of the pixel structure in which the pixel
electrode 13 and the counter electrode 15 are formed in different
layers.
[0166] Alternatively, the technique which has been suggested by the
inventors may be applied to a transverse electric field display
type liquid crystal panel in which the pixel electrode 13 and the
counter electrode 15 are formed in the same layer.
[0167] FIG. 24 shows a sectional structure example corresponding to
a ninth pixel structure example. The structure excluding the pixel
structure 13 and the counter electrode 15 is basically the same as
the pixel structure described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0168] That is, a liquid crystal panel 91 includes two glass
substrates 3 and 5, and a liquid crystal layer 7 filled so as to be
sandwiched with the glass substrates 3 and 5. A polarizing plate 9
is disposed on the outer surface of each substrate, and an
alignment film 11 is disposed on the inner surface of each
substrate.
[0169] In FIG. 24, the pixel electrode 13 and the counter electrode
15 are formed on the glass substrate 5. Of these, the pixel
electrode 13 is structured such that one ends of comb-shaped four
electrode branches 13A are connected to each other by a connection
portion 13B. Meanwhile, the counter electrode 15 is structured such
that one ends of comb-shaped three electrode branches 15A are
connected to the common electrode line 33. In this case, the
electrode branches 15A of the counter electrode 15 are disposed so
as to be fitted into the spaces between the electrode branches 13A
of the pixel electrode 13. The common electrode line 33 is formed
in a lattice shape so as to follow the signal lines 21 and the
scanning lines 23.
[0170] For this electrode structure, as shown in FIG. 24, the
electrode branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13 and the electrode
branches 15A of the counter electrode 15 are alternately disposed
in the same layer. With this electrode structure, a parabolic
electric field is generated between the electrode branches 13A of
the pixel electrode 13 and the electrode branches 15A of the
counter electrode 15. In FIG. 24, this electric field is indicated
by a broken line.
[0171] With this pixel structure, a liquid crystal panel can be
realized in which, even though the arrangement of the liquid
crystal molecules is disturbed due to the reverse twist phenomenon
caused by finger press or the like, the arrangement disturbance can
be eliminated by itself in several seconds. Of course, a wide
viewing angle according to a transverse electric field can be
realized.
(L) Pixel Structure Example 10
[0172] In the above-described five pixel structure examples, a case
where the extension direction of each slit 31 formed by the
electrode branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13 is parallel to the
signal line 21 or crosses obliquely with respect to the signal line
21 has been described.
[0173] Alternatively, the extension direction of each slit 31
formed by the electrode branches 13A of the pixel electrode 13 may
be parallel to the scanning line 23 or may cross obliquely with
respect to the scanning line 23.
(M) Other Examples
(M-1) Substrate Material
[0174] In the above description of the examples, the substrate is a
glass substrate, but a plastic substrate or other substrates may be
used.
(M-2) Product Examples
[0175] In the above description, various pixel structures capable
of generating a transverse electric field have been described.
Hereinafter, description will be provided for electronic
apparatuses in which a liquid crystal panel having the pixel
structure according to the examples (with no driving circuit
mounted therein) or a liquid crystal panel module (with a driving
circuit mounted therein) is mounted.
[0176] FIG. 25 shows a conceptual example of the configuration of
an electronic apparatus 101. The electronic apparatus 101 includes
a liquid crystal panel 103 having the above-described pixel
structure, a system control unit 105, and an operation input unit
107. The nature of processing performed by the system control unit
105 varies depending on the product type of the electronic
apparatus 101.
[0177] The configuration of the operation input unit 107 varies
depending on the product type. A GUI (Graphic User Interface),
switches, buttons, a pointing device, and other operators may be
used as the operation input unit 107.
[0178] It should be noted that the electronic apparatus 101 is not
limited to an apparatus designed for use in a specific field
insofar as it can display an image or video generated inside or
input from the outside.
[0179] FIG. 26 shows an appearance example of a television receiver
as an electronic apparatus. A television receiver 111 has a display
screen 117 on the front surface of its housing. The display screen
117 includes a front panel 113, a filter glass 115, and the like.
The display screen 117 corresponds to the liquid crystal panel
according to the embodiment.
[0180] The electronic apparatus 101 may be, for example, a digital
camera. FIGS. 27A and 27B show an appearance example of a digital
camera 121. FIG. 27A shows an appearance example as viewed from the
front (from the subject), and FIG. 27B shows an appearance example
when viewed from the rear (from the photographer).
[0181] The digital camera 121 includes a protective cover 123, an
imaging lens section 125, a display screen 127, a control switch
129, and a shutter button 131. Of these, the display screen 127
corresponds to the liquid crystal panel according to the
embodiment.
[0182] The electronic apparatus 101 may be, for example, a video
camcorder. FIG. 28 shows an appearance example of a video camcorder
141.
[0183] The video camcorder 141 includes an imaging lens 145
provided to the front of a main body 143 so as to capture the image
of the subject, an photographing start/stop switch 147, and a
display screen 149. Of these, the display screen 149 corresponds to
the liquid crystal panel according to the embodiment.
[0184] The electronic apparatus 101 may be, for example, a personal
digital assistant. FIGS. 29A and 29B show an appearance example of
a mobile phone 151 as a personal digital assistant. The mobile
phone 151 shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B is a folder type mobile phone.
FIG. 29A shows an appearance example of the mobile phone in an
unfolded state, and FIG. 29B shows an appearance example of the
mobile phone in a folded state.
[0185] The mobile phone 151 includes an upper housing 153, a lower
housing 155, a connection portion (in this example, a hinge) 157, a
display screen 159, an auxiliary display screen 161, a picture
light 163, and an imaging lens 165. Of these, the display screen
159 and the auxiliary display screen 161 correspond to the liquid
crystal panel according to the embodiment.
[0186] The electronic apparatus 101 may be, for example, a
computer. FIG. 30 shows an appearance example of a notebook
computer 171.
[0187] The notebook computer 171 includes a lower housing 173, an
upper housing 175, a keyboard 177, and a display screen 179. Of
these, the display screen 179 corresponds to the liquid crystal
panel according to the embodiment.
[0188] In addition to the above-described electronic apparatuses,
the electronic apparatus 101 may be, for example, a projector, an
audio player, a game machine, an electronic book, an electronic
dictionary, or the like.
[0189] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is
therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered
by the appended claims.
* * * * *